Hulunbuir呼伦贝尔

GrasslandMongolian CultureBorder SceneryNomadic Experience

Overview

Hulunbuir in northeastern Inner Mongolia is world-famous for its grasslands, hailed as China's most beautiful prairie. Vast green pastures, winding rivers, and scattered lakes define the landscape. Mongolian, Russian and other ethnic groups create unique borderland culture. Ergun Wetland, Manzhouli National Gate, and Moerdaoga primeval forest showcase natural and cultural diversity. Horseback riding, staying in yurts, and savoring hand-grabbed mutton offer the best nomadic experiences.

Key Facts

Area253,000 km²
Population224万
LanguageMongolian, Northeastern Mandarin
Best timeJun-Sep

Top Attractions

Hulunbuir Grassland

Hulunbuir Grassland

China's most beautiful grassland, vast green pastures with flocks under blue skies, perfect for nomadic culture experiences

Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area

Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area

Iconic Sino-Russian border landmark, solemn National Gate with views of Russian Zabaikalsk, Matryoshka Square exudes exotic charm

Ergun Wetland

Ergun Wetland

Asia's largest wetland, Genhe River winds through vast marshes hosting rare birds, boardwalks and viewing platforms offer stunning panoramas

Moerdaoga National Forest Park

Moerdaoga National Forest Park

Primeval forest of Greater Khingan Mountains, towering trees and babbling streams, forest train through the woods, stunning birch colors in autumn

Hulun Lake

Hulun Lake

Inner Mongolia's largest lake, sapphire waters set in grassland, pastoral songs by the shore, winter ice activities when frozen

Shiwei Russian Ethnic Township

Shiwei Russian Ethnic Township

China's only Russian ethnic township, wooden houses along Ergun River face Russian villages across the water, rich exotic atmosphere

Food & Snacks

Hand-Grabbed Mutton

Hand-Grabbed Mutton

Grassland classic dish, fresh mutton boiled in clear water, dipped in garlic-vinegar sauce, tender and authentic, embodying nomadic spirit

Roasted Whole Lamb

Roasted Whole Lamb

Mongolia's most honored guest ceremony, whole lamb slow-roasted with crispy skin and tender meat, seasoned with cumin and chili

Mongolian Milk Tea

Mongolian Milk Tea

Daily savory milk tea of Mongolians, brewed with brick tea, fresh milk and salt, rich and mellow, paired with roasted millet and milk skin

Buryat Buuz (Steamed Buns)

Buryat Buuz (Steamed Buns)

Traditional pastry of Buryat people, filled with beef or mutton, thin wrapper with juicy filling, steamed and served with vinegar-garlic sauce

Festivals & Events

Nadam Festival — July
Ice and Snow Nadam — December
Sebin Festival — June

World & Intangible Heritage

Practical Tips

Mosquito Protection & Sunscreen

Grassland has many mosquitoes, especially Jul-Aug, bring insect repellent; UV is strong, use sunscreen

Large Temperature Difference

Day-night temperature difference can exceed 15°C, even in midsummer nights a thick jacket is needed, wear layers

Transportation Tips

Grassland attractions are scattered with limited public transport, chartering a car or self-driving recommended, plan routes and gas stations ahead

Respect Ethnic Customs

Don't step on the threshold when entering a yurt, receive offered drinks with both hands, don't touch others' heads

Mobile Signal

Mobile signal is weak deep in the grassland, download offline maps, make important calls in the city before heading out

Open the full interactive guide & dialect audio →